IPPG

The mountain porter is the backbone of the trekking and expedition industry in the Himalayas and nowhere is this more true than in Nepal. Porters are tough and proud with an engaging sense of humour, but despite their hardiness they are vulnerable and many have died doing their job. The threats they face come from the elements such as  cold, heat and high altitude. Unfortunately they can also be subject to exploitation.
In 1997 a small group of concerned people set out to change attitudes to porters and the International Porter Protection Group (IPPG) was set up. This article explores the background to the inauguration of the IPPG and how it struggled to change the lives of the porters for the better.

The IPPG is run entirely by volunteers and aided by donations. If you would like to volunteer or donate, or simply become more aware of the issues, please visit our website: www.ippg.net

 

Dr Jim Duff
International Coordinator IPPG